PBS host, journalist Alexander Heffner to speak at University of Akron

Alexander Heffner, host of PBS's "The Open Mind," will be at the University of Akron Jan. 24 to discuss civil discourse in the digital age.

(University of Akron)

AKRON, Ohio - PBS host, journalist and educator Alexander Heffner will be at the University of Akron's Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics Jan. 24 to talk about civil discourse in the digital age.

Heffner is a host of PBS' "The Open Mind," a public affairs interview program that covers topics in politics, media, arts, technology and civic life. Additionally, Heffner has spent much of the past decade writing about politics, civic life and Millennials for national news outlets including the Washington Post, the New York Times, Time, Reuters, CNN and more.

Heffner also founded SCOOP08 and SCOOP44, the first national student newspapers covering the campaign and administration of President Obama.

"Mr. Heffner's expertise is particularly valuable these days--we all need to cultivate an open mind," said John Green, director of the Bliss Institute. "Heffner's focus on public policy in connection to a new generation of Americans makes him an ideal envoy for today's college students."

The talk is free and will be held at Kolbe Hall 51 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. To RSVP, call, 330-972-5182 or email jbolois@uakron.edu.